The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, also known as the Royal Botanical Gardens, is a renowned botanical garden located near Kandy, Sri Lanka. Spanning approximately 147 acres, it is the largest garden in the country and is famous for its extensive collection of orchids, palm trees, and a variety of other plant species.
Peradeniy Botanical Gardens is located about 5.5 km to the west of the city of Kandy in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, along the Colombo-Kandy Highway.
The gardens have a rich history dating back to the 14th century when they were a royal garden. The British expanded them during their time in Sri Lanka, and they have been open to the public since 1821. It served as a pleasure garden for the Kandyan King Kirti Sri Rajasinha before it became a botanical garden under British rule.
Visitors can explore various attractions such as the Orchid House, the Palm Avenue, the Giant Bamboo of Burma, the Cannonball Tree, and the Javan Fig Tree. The garden also features a spice garden, medicinal plants, a herbaceous border, and an arboretum.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for visitors, which varies depending on one's tourist status (local or foreign). Prices are subject to change, so it's advised to check the current rates before visiting.
The gardens are usually open every day from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. However, hours may vary on public holidays, and it's a good idea to confirm the opening times before planning your visit.
Yes, guided tours are available. Visitors can either join a group tour or hire a private guide to learn more about the plant species and history of the gardens.
The gardens can be visited year-round, but the best time to see the plants in bloom is during the spring months, from March to May. However, the monsoon season, from October to December, can be less ideal due to heavy rains.
The gardens are equipped with essential facilities for tourists such as restrooms, a restaurant, picnic areas, and benches. Wheelchair access is available in certain areas, but the terrain can be challenging in some sections of the garden.
Yes, visitors are allowed to bring their food and enjoy a picnic in designated areas. However, it's important to keep the gardens clean and dispose of any trash properly.